Our beloved David Joseph Powers, 36, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 22, 2021 after a long and courageous journey with cancer. Dave was born September 30th in Delaware, Ohio.
Dave graduated from Otterbein University with a degree in life sciences and education and played on the Cardinals tennis team. Prior to his final months, Dave was working towards a master's in counseling, hoping to transform his illness into a healing opportunity for others.
In his younger years, Dave received the prestigious honor of becoming an Eagle Scout and enjoyed many campouts with Troop 318. He was a gifted athlete who played several sports including basketball, soccer, and tennis.
Hungry for adventure, Dave spent much of his young adulthood traveling the country and meeting new people. Eventually, he settled in Boulder, Colorado where he met the love of his life, Alyson. Together, they enjoyed hiking in the Rocky Mountains and playing with their delightful cat, Mr. McFeely.
A passionate Earthly steward, Dave loved crafting with the natural elements. He especially enjoyed his work as a stone mason, builder and carpenter. While he had many talents, his greatest skill was bringing out the best in each of us. We flourished in his kind and steady presence. We hope to continue his legacy of integrity and compassion, and we will dearly miss his deep blue eyes and golden heart.
Dave is survived by his wife, Alyson, and his parents Edward and Nancy Powers of Delaware. He is also survived by his two brothers Brian (Amanda) of Indianapolis, IN; and Jeffrey (Diane) of Blue Ash, Ohio; as well as many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Adrian and Betty Moorhead and Anthony and Ethel Powers.
Family will have a private celebration of life at a later date. A casual, outdoor gathering will be open to all loved ones during the summer of 2022 in Colorado, date TBD. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Mt. Carmel Hospice Foundation at 614-546-4500 or https://www.mountcarmelhealth.com/mount-carmel-foundation/.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Patrick Corbett
October 19, 2022
For Christmas one year (I think it was 2008 since my fiance and step-daughter were present), we were staying at this cabin. At one point we were out in the woods and John found a vine to swing from. By the way, always count on John to think up crazy fun things to do. We let the kids go first, which would be Joseph Anthony and Hope. Then it was the adults' turn. Sure we would swing with a little grace I suppose. But when it was Dave's turn, it was a game changer. He was so athletic and tall (compared to the rest of us), it was so funny watching him let the vine take him high enough to jump from a height we'd never dare. Maybe it was his sharp reflexes as well. He was so amazingly athletic one could not help but laugh when watching.
Kristen Gillenwater
April 2, 2022
I just read in the Otterbein Towers magazine that Dave passed and I am heartbroken. I met him one day in a coffee shop and I instantly knew he was an extremely kind soul. We knew a lot of the same people at Otterbein and always enjoyed catching up with him. Take solace in knowing that he touched so many people´s lives and exuded love & kindness.
Molly Jo Stanley
December 16, 2021
It was almost 11 years ago that I met Dave through a mutual friend, and it was only briefly that our paths crossed. Nevertheless, it was immediately clear to me what a special person he was.
A hike to one of Delaware's oldest Trees, and a birthday celebration enjoying local live music, it was an unforgettable experience, made even more precious in the company of the kind of person who remains a lifelong friend after mere hours of knowing.
My heart aches for Alyson and family, and all who knew him; may peace accompany you as you navigate such a difficult loss. I am simultaneously grateful for the blessing of knowing Dave, and to know he spent this life so deeply enfolded in the compassion and joy he shared with the world.
Betty (Shaw) & Keith Dorsett
October 31, 2021
Ed & Nancy, Alyson and the entire family - It's so hard to find the right words, but I hope you will know somehow, our sympathy and warmest thoughts are with today.
Kathleen Mergler
October 31, 2021
I was beyond shocked and devastated to see this. Dave and I had conversations about his teaching vs "couch surfing". But my worry was for nothing. He knew what he was doing and ended up doing just that! Doing what he wanted and he did it with the love of his life. He was a strong person and I often used his life story. I will continue to use that life lesson for others to learn by. I´ve thought about him so often....and I will continue to pray for all who were touched by his gifts.
Valerie
October 29, 2021
Dave and I met at Otterbein. Where he was one of the most incredible and kind people. It breaks my heart to hear him passing so young. He will be greatly missed
Jen Spicer, Chaplain
October 28, 2021
Dearest Aly,
Thank you for your tender care; your genuine compassion; your mighty courage to ask the difficult questions; your steadfast presence; your self-less sacrifices; your honest tears; and your ABOUNDING LOVE for Dave...There aren't enough words to express my gratitude to you for allowing me to be a part of your lives, to know you and Dave through our meaningful conversations, in these past few months. What you shared with Dave was one of a kind, YOU made all the difference in his life and death, and he loved you so very much...Sending light and love to you and yours...(Long live the Legend of Broccoli Man)!!
Rev. David Schwartz
October 28, 2021
On behalf of the whole community of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Boulder, we extend our deepest sympathy and love to the whole family. He was dearly loved and well remembered by so many folks here.
Amy Szen
October 28, 2021
I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know Dave while he did contracting work for UUCB. I'll never forget him fixing the door to my office as while he worked he entertained me with stories from his fascinating life. What a great storyteller! He brought a stalwart calm to every task he tackled no matter the level of difficulty. He was funny, kind, and had such a beautiful presence. Dave is and will be so missed. To all his family and loved ones I am so sorry for your loss. You will all be in my thoughts and heart.
Anne & John Lunn
October 28, 2021
Nancy, Ed and family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your son, David. We can´t even imagine what you are feeling. You all will be in our prayers.
Annie & John
Tom Zanoni
October 28, 2021
I always enjoyed & looked forward to Dave when he would help each week at the church. He had an easy & respectful way about him. Looking back, I now know that I thought of him as the son I never had. He was a good soul. I will miss him & his smile that always there.
Morgan Bommer-Guinn
October 27, 2021
I will always remember Dave for his kind heart, huge smile, and bright eyes. He was one of the most caring and empathic people I´ve ever met, even at a young age. Deepest sympathies to your family, you raised such a good man.
Taylor Rohr
October 27, 2021
So sorry for your Loss
Patrick Corbett
October 27, 2021
I´m going to search my files, including electronic files, for any videos and pictures with the Daveman. Hoping to find such involving our hike up mount brown where the goat chomped on his shirt that he hung to dry, or of the time we bought gaudy second hand clothes for Christmas...
Craig and Vickie Conroy
October 27, 2021
Dear Ed, Nancy, Alyson and family, our condolences to you all. May The Holy Spirit, The comforter, console your hearts and minds as you travel this season in life. It was an honor to watch David, our boys and their friends grow-up together during school days. David was always so friendly and respectful to all. We BLESS you with the Peace of God that passes all understanding and His Grace that is sufficient for you all. It is times like these that it is wonderful to know Jesus.
Know and Believe His Love,
Craig & Vickie Conroy
Dave and Deb Ames
October 26, 2021
Dave was such a good friend to our sons....he always had a big smile and positive attitude. We can't imagine your pain and sorrow. Our hearts are breaking for you!
Kim Becker
October 26, 2021
So very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May you find peace in the many memories you have made throughout the years.
Susan and Timothy Bailey
October 26, 2021
Dear Aly and Mr. and Mrs Powers and family,
We are grateful to have known Dave in Boulder. He touched our hearts, and so many others at UUCB, with his kindness and caring ways. We treasure our memories together and will strive to live as he did.
Sincerely,
Susan and Tim
Wayne Daniels Rn Mt. Carmel Hospice
October 26, 2021
So Sorry for your loss.
Jim Johnston
October 26, 2021
We offer you our deepest sympathy.
Jim & Marcia Johnston
Ashley, Ohio
Elizabeth Roy
October 26, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss. David was such a great person. He will be greatly missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers through this extremely difficult time.
George Bordick
October 26, 2021
My condolence to your family. Stay strong and be well.
Vicki Tilton
October 25, 2021
Ed and Nancy. I am so saddened to hear of your son's passing. Sending condolences and love to you and the family.
Debbie & Ben Lyons
October 25, 2021
As we are lifelong friends of David's extended families, please know our heartfelt prayers & sympathy.
Most sincerely,
Debbie & Ben
Christine (Sagar) Aranyos-Prouty
October 25, 2021
I feel so incredibly lucky to have shared some of my best years at Ohio University with Dave. We lived on the same floor in Bush Hall freshman year, and we celebrated those wonderful friendships together at our annual summer "Bush Bashes." He brought light and joy to every room he walked in. Sending love to his parents and all those who remember him.
Mandy Schaber
October 25, 2021
It was a great honor caring for and getting to know David, I'm deeply saddened by his passing. His kind eyes and calming presence will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to Alison and family.
Jim and Susie Bauer
October 25, 2021
May God's love offer your family comfort and peace during this time of loss. We will remember Dave's infectious smile and energy in pack 318 activities.
Erica Bennett
October 25, 2021
So very sorry to hear about the passing of your son...I will be thinking about you....
Diane and Vic Williams
October 25, 2021
Dave always had the amazing qualities of kindness, caring, tenderness and humor from the time we met him as a young boy to the wonderful young man he became. We will always treasure our memories of Dave. We send our love to all of you.
Meghan Kollas
October 25, 2021
My first year teaching, he came in with another friend and they were the first two in my room, can't ask for a better two "kids" to have that memory of. Prayers for you all.
Lori Powers
October 25, 2021
Ed, Nancy and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I will be thinking of you durning this difficult time.
Jay and Cindy Beck
October 25, 2021
Words are not enough to express our sorrow in hearing of David´s passing. We have so many fond memories of our days together at Carlisle and Troop 318. We hope that it brings you some comfort knowing how many people he impacted. You are all in our prayers.
Barb Knepper
October 25, 2021
Nancy, Ed and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. May God give you strength now and in the future.
Chet
October 25, 2021
David was an incredible and amazing man! I first met him when he was an Owjl counselor. I was so impressed I hired him immediately to work at the Jungle Gym! That was the beginning of an amazing and beautiful long-term relationship. He fell in with my brother @Gregg Snouffer and it just seems like they was always in our life. I cannot say enough good things about David Powers An amazing man. Love you brother!
Justin Staskiewicz
October 25, 2021
Dave and I met during our freshman year at Ohio University in Bush Hall. We became fast friends and bonded over our shared major in Education. Dave was an incredibly kind and optimistic person. It was a privilege to have known him and I am a better person because of it. My families thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with those that also knew and cared about Dave.
Lucas Buck
October 25, 2021
It's rare you meet someone as genuine and friendly as Dave. He was a special man and I always loved when I was fortunate enough to be around him. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Lindsey (Williams) Casher
October 25, 2021
Dave impacted so many with his sunny personality, big heart, kindness, and sense of humor. I am so grateful to have been able to call him a friend and experience his light. Sending love, healing, and strength during this difficult time.
Dave Lawrence
October 25, 2021
Dave and I were roommates our first year at Ohio University. His boundless energy and spark of wonder were contagious within our community. He had such a warm heart. I'm so thankful to have met. Sending love to all those who knew him.
Barb and Bill Haller
October 25, 2021
We remember Dave as joyful, polite, sweet, and just the funniest kid. We witnessed his spark at Hayes tennis matches and are sure our boys could tell some stories about Boy Scout camp shenanigans. Dave adopted Bill´s corny dad tennis cheer "do it to it, Pacers!", laughing hysterically. We are all the better for having known Dave.
We are so sorry, Alyson, Ed and Nancy and family for the loss of your beloved Dave. We pray God´s peace and comfort in the days ahead. Much love.
Jessica Swan
October 25, 2021
I met Dave when he worked at Amatos in Delaware. He always had a smile on his face, and was kind to anyone that crossed his path. He was very brilliant, and adventurous, so I wasn´t surprised that he wound up in Colorado. Seeing him live his life afar with his beautiful Alyson, made my heart full. He deserved the best life, and I think she gave it to him. Sending my condolences to the family, friends, and lives that he touched. I hope they can find some form of comfort during this time.
Laura Seiffert Frisch
October 25, 2021
I had David as a student at Willis. He was always a bright beacon of the day. His smile was infectious. I send my deepest sympathy to your family, and am thankful to have known David.
Holly & Nathan Felton
October 25, 2021
So sorry for your loss. Dave was a the most fun, energetic, sweet, all around amazing person. Prayer and thoughts as you navigate this extremely difficult time.
David and Judy Carpenter
October 25, 2021
Even though his time with us was short, he made an impact on all who knew him. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead as you remember a life well lived. Please know that we will keep your family in our prayers! Godspeed Dave.
Don and Sue White
October 25, 2021
We are so very sorry for your loss. Hug each other and remember the joy he brought to others.
Sending love.
Peggy Benziger
October 25, 2021
What a wonderful man!!!! He gave so much to so many and was blessed with a wonderful family and friends! Love to you all as you deal with this devestating loss. His obituary is beautiful as he was!
Lenni & Steve Wilson
October 25, 2021
We will always have great memories of Dave roaming the neighborhood in Hayes Colony. Knowing first-hand what you are going through, we can only hope that you will travel this road with the strength it requires and each day will get better. Dave will always be with you.
Pat & Doug Sullivan
October 25, 2021
Aly, Nancy and Ed, Brian and Jeff and your whole family - Dave´s gorgeous soul always made us smile. We were blessed to be able to visit him before he passed and he put US at peace with his cancer. I (Pat) remember his loving gift to us at Carlisle, his elementary school, with his Eagle project of our courtyard cleanup. Giving was such a big part of Dave and his bright light will be so missed.
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